Exercising During Summer Vacation

I feel the gasps already vibrating through my bones! Take a deep breath; it's all right. Exercise during vacation is easy. (Yes. E. A. S. Y. Annnnnd- FUN! double gasp.)

If exercising (any time of the year really) is so gruesome that you'd rather go to the dentist (or to the OBGYN as some people I know refer to) then you have the WRONG activity. Exercise and physical activity (yes there's a difference!) should be FUN! (Get it?! Exercise=fun!)

FYI. (I digress. My apologies.) Physical activity is an activity that gets you up and moving. This can include gardening, cleaning, laundry, walking the dog and so much more. On the other hand, exercise is planned and structured physical activity such as hiking, biking, participating in aerobic classes and more. (One of many sources!)

Earlier this summer, I rewarded myself with a long, overdue two week vacation! (For those of you who have never taken advantage of that banked benefit time, well it's time to jump on the band wagon and use it! Vacation is great- mentally and physically!)

(Second digression over. Point of story begins.)

My personal treat was a cruise to Bermuda. And boy was it a treat! Bermuda is such a beautiful, peaceful little island. Although I can babble on and on about a thousand different topics regarding Bermuda, my focus today is to talk about how to put a handle on the excitement and emotion and tap into a little reality.

I'm not a believer of living in your own personal bubble and pretending that avoidance of reality is acceptable! Sorry! So, reality is that even on vacation it is important to have some sort of structure. Indulgence is great! Overindulgence is not!

On the first day of the cruise, I did not exercise (no planned physical activity), but there was plenty of physical activity (such as walking, carrying my very heavy bag, exploring the ship, and more.) Before I boarded the ship, I had a game plan regarding exercise. I knew that I would be on the island for 1.5 days and on the ship the rest of the days. That left me two complete days on the ship! So on those two days, I went to the gym! (What is this? The fourth gasp?! Oh my!) Yup! I did it. I used the elliptical for 45 minutes TWICE while on vacation. And believe it or not, it was WONDERFUL. Who would have ever believed that using the elliptical staring out into the ocean could be so peaceful and so enjoyable! Unbelievable, I know, yet so very true. So next time, put the skepticism away and give it a try! You just might end up loving a little planned exercise!

Also, when I was done with my structured exercise, I was off exploring the ship more, swimming in one of the few pools. Although I didnt get to everything that the ship offered there were a variety of fun activities to choose from such as dancing, aerobic classes, wall climbing and more! Like I said, exercising on vacation is completely 100% doable AND FUN!

The day and a half that was free time to explore the island was left for
1) snorkeling
2) (additional) swimming
(How could anyone say 'no' to the beautiful water surrounding Bermuda?!? I just don't think it's possible!)



3) lots and lots and lots (have I mentions a lot!) of walking (I'm mean how else am I supposed to get from shop to shop! ;))



Although physical activity is only half of living a healthy (and happy) lifestyle, this half is a great start! Happy adventuring!! :)